What is companionship and why is it important when combating loneliness and isolation

As a society, we don’t talk much about loneliness and isolation. But the truth is, both are on the rise, especially amongst the older generation. Companionship and friendship can help turn loneliness into togetherness. Here’s why companionship is important and why humans need it at all stages of life.

Loneliness is a serious issue

At companiions, we believe no one should ever feel lonely. Sadly, right now, many people are suffering from feelings of loneliness and isolation. An Age UK report found that there are currently 1.2 million chronically lonely older people living in the UK. That figure is predicted to rise to 2 million by 2025.

The same report also found that half a million older adults don’t see or speak to another person for 5-6 days each week. Chronic loneliness brings real risks. As well as affecting an individual’s day-to-day experience, it can lead to an increased risk of mental health issues, heart disease, and dementia. If you’re worried your loved one is struggling with loneliness, the good news is there’s an antidote: togetherness. Find out more about how to spot the signs of loneliness.

Companionship creates a sense of belonging

We all need connection and companionship. When we share meaningful time with someone we like and trust, whether it’s a relative, friend, or a ‘booked’ companion, we’re combatting feelings of social isolation and creating a sense of belonging and wellbeing. Through togetherness, we can all enjoy happy moments, create new memories, and develop a more positive outlook on life.

Companionship can be informal, such as visiting an older neighbour to simply check in. It can also be organised, through a befriending service like the companiions app. Afterall, finding new connections can be tricky, especially if you or your loved one is living alone, dealing with poor health or loss of mobility, or living far away from friends and family. companiions is here here to make finding and arranging companionship quick, easy, safe and secure.

companiions is here to help

There are plenty of services that offer professional care. Many of these make a real difference to people’s lives, especially when specific and specialised kinds of help are needed. Often though, people who have feelings of loneliness and isolation simply need companionship – not care (which can be very expensive). 

We created companiions to answer this need that we were seeing time and again in our loved ones, as well as our wider communities. Our befriending service brings together people who need a little help or companionship, helping you find reliable, reviewed and vetted companions in your local area. 

We’re all different and we all have different needs. We’re glad to say companiions reflects that richness and variety. People use companiions for all sorts of reasons, here are a handful of examples:

• Chatting, laughing and sharing stories over a cup of tea
• Taking care of day-to-day chores
• Picking up prescriptions or groceries
• Cooking and preparing healthy meals and snacks 
• Getting a lift to an event
• Going for a walk in the local area
• Enjoying a hobby together, like drawing, reading or sewing
• Looking after odd jobs, like decorating or simple repairs

Loneliness may be commonplace, but we all have the power to turn it around. If you think your loved one could be in need of some extra companionship, download the companiions app and sign up. After following a few simple steps, you can find and book trusted local companions, hassle-free. 

Find out more

Want to know more about companiions and how we’re bringing companionship to every community? Visit our How It Works page to discover how to use our app and find a companion that can support you and your loved ones today.

You can also get more advice on our blog such as whether to look for companionship or in-home care, or our guide to moving an elderly relative into your home.